Feeling Trapped

[NothingIsWrong]

I started having severe anxiety issues last week. I went to the ER thinking I was having a heart attack (which was kinda ridiculous since I'm 18) but after multiple tests my heart was healthy and the Doctor dismissed it as a panic attack. The attack came without warning and was quite scary. I was prescribed Ativan (0.5 mg) and that only helped a little. Ever since the attack my mind is filled with constant worry about nothing and I have brief episodes of hyperventilation and rapid heart rate. My chest always feels tight and my heart exhibits symptoms of RSA (Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia). I try to control it with various breathing techniques but to no avail. I'm starting to become very irritated easily and I feel helpless. I joined this forum hoping to get some feedback from individual's that have also struggled with this terrible feeling. Any input would be highly appreciated.
Thanks.

[ariday]

I understand how you feel; i too suffer from anxiety and its horrible. Now that i am pregnant it seems to have gotten the best of me. My advice to you being that you and i have similar symptoms is to try Yoga, I know it might sound funny but Yoga is the best because it helps you with breathing excercises meditation and it helps you relax. I am zoloft for the anxiety that i have and i also see a therapist. Not that i am telling you to go on zoloft; but if symptoms dont subside; DO NOT be afraid to try medications for panic attacks and anxiety. Its much better to have these symptoms at ease instead of living in fear all the time.

[NothingIsWrong]

Thank you for the input, I was not expecting a response this soon. I now feel assured that I can expect an answer for any questions concerning my anxiety. :)
I have contacted a local mental health clinic and set up the appropriate arrangements with a psychiatrist. I understand that I need to get this problem behind me. Also, is there any herbal remedies available that are proven to help with anxiety? I don't really want to be put on medication (but if I have to I will take it).    

[Rich99]

Yes and they must have given you some lab tests such as thyroid levels,  etc and we can assume they came out normal.      When you have the first panic attack,  you then become fearful of it happening again.    That fear continues the cycle of anxiety and perhaps another panic attack.    As said above,  you want to 'nip this in the bud now' so it doesn't become a chronic issue as the years go by.

[mammo]

Hi and welcome!  For many of us our anxiety worsens after our first panic attack because they are so scary and we do feel like we're going to die.  But nobody has or will.  An anxiety attack is a normal reaction coming at the wrong time.  It is our "fight or flight" mode which is needed when we're in danger. Our bodies are flooded with adrenaline so that we have the ability to protect ourselfves. Since we aren't in a dangerous situation the adrenaline has nothing to work on and it results in a panic attack.  It's just the body trying to handle all the extra adrenaline. So we kind of live in fear of another one happening and they usually do.  The Lorazepam should help, but also therapy is helpful with this.  Anxiety feeds off our fear and worry, so the less you worry the less anxiety you will have.  Keeping yourself busy helps, exercising, trying to live a full life so there is little room for worry.  I've been there so I know this is much easier said than done.  Between the medication and therapy you should be okay.  With you being young you need to nip this in the bud now, so it doesn't follow you thru life.  You want to live your life, not worry it away.  I'm sure lots of others will have some great advice for you, so stay with us!  I wish you the best and take care!

[Alisonj29]

Did the ER not recommend follow up for the anxiety? If not can you go to your regular doctor and discuss how you are feeling. If you are anxious sometimes attempting the breathing exercises can actually heighten the anxiety. They are more useful before or not during an attack. I know one way that works with arrhythmia caused by anxiety is ice cold water on your face. I dont know exactly how it works but it really seems too.
I hope you are able to get someone to help you soon